Rhododendron plantation marks World Environment Day in Shillong

Shillong: A plantation drive of evergreen Rhododendron saplings by schoolchildren, led by CM Conrad . Sangma at the famous Rhododendron Trek in Upper Shillong, marked the state's observance of World Environment Day on Thursday.

Organized by the dept of forests & environment under the theme ‘Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future’, the plantation drive focused on the conservation and propagation of the red Rhododendron arboreum, known as Tiew Saw in Khasi and Latuthiñ in Jaintia.

“Our students will also plant rhododendron trees along the entire stretch of the trail to further enhance the beauty of the trek,” Sangma said, adding that the plantation drive would contribute to the environment and tourism.

The CM also joined students in plantation of Miyawaki tree saplings at Mawrah village in the city outskirts.

“Small steps towards conservation today will help secure water, biodiversity, and livelihoods for generations to come,” he told the students.

“Actions like recycling, reducing waste, walking when possible, using e-Vehicles, and caring for our surroundings can create meaningful change. Planting a tree should be part of a lasting commitment to sustainability and to Mother Nature,” he observed.

“We must protect and preserve our environmental hotspots so that tourists and future generations can continue to experience the enthralling natural beauty of Meghalaya,” he underscored.

The CM noted that ecological initiatives can also generate economic opportunities for local communities.

On the other hand, Union health minister and BJP national president Jagat Prakash Nadda on Friday joined party workers in Shillong to mark World Environment Day by participating in a plantation drive under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign.

“This initiative is dedicated to mothers because a mother serves her children selflessly throughout her life,” Nadda said adding that nature too continuously nurtures and protects humanity.

Meanwhile, an official statement said the Meghalaya govt is committed to protecting the environment by striking a balance between economic development and ecological sustainability.

“The govt aims to become a leader in climate-resilient agriculture, eco-tourism, and sustainability by protecting its natural resources, expanding forest cover, and undertaking scientific mining,” the govt spelt out.